ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has imposed the state's first quarantine for gypsy moths.

The quarantine affects Lake and Cook counties in far northeastern Minnesota. It took effect Tuesday.

The quarantine is aimed at slowing the spread of the destructive tree pest. Outdoor items in the quarantined counties — such as logs and firewood, camping equipment and patio furniture — that could be infested with gypsy moths must be inspected and certified as gypsy moth-free before moving to a non-quarantined area.

Homeowners, campers and other who live in or visit the quarantine area will need to inspect outdoor household items — such as RVs, camping equipment and patio furniture — before moving those items out of the quarantine area.